On the Fortieth Day of His Repose

Professor Michel Abs

The Secretary General of the Middle East Council of Churches (MECC)

When ascetic simplicity comes together with leadership, a rare model is born, one that is difficult to repeat. This is what Brother Nour embodied throughout his journey. For him, a position was never an end in itself, but a means to serve people and create lasting impact.

In a time when the spotlight often turns toward those with the most authority, a different kind of model stands out, one that does not need noise in order to be heard. It is a model that turns silence into action, humility into strength, and achievement into the answer to every question. This is the model of Brother Nour.

Ascetic detachment is a hidden strength that creates dignity and reverence.

Asceticism does not mean poverty or isolation. In Brother Nour, it was an inner discipline before it was an outward behavior.

It was detachment in appearance, combined with closeness to people.

His ascetic simplicity was not isolation, but freedom from the outward displays that separate a leader from those who work with him. Brother Nour was known for his simplicity and humility. He was closer to the team than to the chair of authority. This closeness broke barriers and opened the door to trust, because people do not follow titles; they follow those whose sincerity they can feel.

His detachment was also from status. He did not seek visibility or the front place in photos and occasions. He made room for others, and in doing so, he became greater in their eyes.

His detachment was in speech. He spoke little and acted much. This gave weight to his words. When he spoke, everyone listened, because they knew he spoke only when there was a need…

From Beirut to the villages of Marjeyoun district, the Middle East Council of Churches (MECC) continues to stand beside vulnerable communities in South Lebanon through the organization of humanitarian convoys reaching hard-to-reach areas with essential assistance.

While many roads in South Lebanon remain difficult and communities continue to endure isolation and uncertainty, MECC continues its commitment to stand beside the people who chose to remain in their villages despite all challenges.

Today, MECC is organizing a humanitarian convoy to the hard-to-reach areas of Marjeyoun district, carrying basic assistance to families living with limited access to essential services and daily needs.

Under the title “Service with Dignity,” Safadi Foundation, in collaboration with MECC-the Middle East Council of Churches and with the support of Danmission, launched two training courses in digital skills and light construction work at Safadi Center for Rural Development in Deir Dalloum, Akkar. This initiative aims to equip young men and women with the necessary skills and provide them with a paid three-month training program, helping them secure job opportunities that enable them to ensure a decent livelihood for themselves and their families.